Sewer Line Inspections: How They Work & Why You Need One

Every homeowner dreads the “gurgle” of a drain or the slow creep of water where it shouldn’t be. Sewer lines sit silent, buried out of sight, until a problem erupts—sometimes in the middle of the night. That’s where McIntosh Plumbing steps in. When it comes to emergency plumbing, understanding the hidden world beneath your home is key to preventing disaster.

Sewer line inspections aren’t just for “old” homes or houses on the market. They’re for anyone who wants peace of mind, fewer surprises, and a healthy plumbing system. Let’s look under the surface—literally.

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection? 🕵️

Think of a sewer camera inspection like a medical checkup for your home’s arteries. Instead of guessing, we send a small, waterproof camera through your pipes. The camera is attached to a flexible cable, which we carefully feed through an access point—usually a clean-out or a drain.

As it travels, it sends live video to a monitor. We see inside your pipes in real time. Tree roots, breaks, clogs, buildup—nothing hides from the lens. This technology replaces guesswork with clear answers.

Step-by-Step: How It Works

1. Locate an Access Point: We find the best entry—often a main clean-out near your house or in the yard.
2. Insert the Camera: The camera, attached to a sturdy cable, enters the pipe.
3. Explore the Pipe: We move the camera gently through your sewer line, watching the live feed.
4. Spot Problems: Every inch is checked. We look for cracks, roots, bellies (sags), grease, and foreign objects.
5. Mark Trouble Spots: If we find something, we note its exact location and depth.
6. Review & Advise: After the inspection, we review the footage with you, explain what we saw, and discuss next steps.

Sample Images

Roots snaking through a cracked clay pipe—classic troublemaker.

Standing water in a pipe “belly”—a recipe for repeated clogs.

Problems It Can Find

A sewer camera inspection is like flipping on headlights in a tunnel. Here’s what we often uncover:

• Tree Root Intrusion: Roots break into pipes, causing blockages and leaks.
• Cracks or Breaks: Shifting soil, age, or heavy traffic overhead can damage pipes.
• Pipe Bellies: Low spots where water pools, leading to backups and slow drains.
• Grease & Debris Buildup: Years of kitchen scraps or soap scum can shrink your pipe’s passage.
• Foreign Objects: Toys, wipes, or misplaced items that shouldn’t be there.
• Corrosion: Older metal pipes may rust, flake, or collapse.

Not every problem means a full replacement. Sometimes, targeted repairs or ongoing maintenance will do the trick.

How to Prepare for a Sewer Line Inspection

Getting ready is simple, but a little prep helps things go smoothly:

• Clear Access: Remove obstacles (cars, bins, landscaping) from the clean-out area.
• Know the Layout: If you have old plans or know where the main line runs, share it.
• Limit Water Use: Try not to run water or flush toilets just before the appointment.
• Secure Pets: Our equipment is safe, but curious pets might get in the way.

That’s it. We’ll handle the rest, and you don’t need to dig up your yard.

Inspection Costs & Benefits 💡

Sewer line camera inspections are an investment—usually ranging from $150 to $500, depending on pipe length and complexity. While prices vary, consider what’s at stake:

• Prevents Surprise Repairs: A small inspection fee beats thousands in emergency plumbing fixes.
• Informs Home Sales: Many realtors and buyers now expect proof of a healthy sewer line.
• Supports Routine Maintenance: Spotting trouble early means smaller, more affordable fixes.
• Non-Invasive: No digging. No mess. Just answers.

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), sewer inspections are a leading way to avoid expensive post-purchase headaches.

When Should You Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection?

• Before Buying or Selling: Lenders or buyers may require proof the line is clear.
• Recurring Clogs or Backups: If you plunge, snake, or call for drain cleaning often, it’s time.
• Older Homes: Houses built before the 1980s may have clay or cast iron pipes—both prone to issues.
• After Major Tree Removal: Roots may have already entered pipes.
• Strange Smells or Lush Patches of Grass: Sewage leaks often make grass grow suspiciously green.

In emergencies—like sewage in your basement or multiple drains backing up—call for an inspection right away.

Licensing, Codes, and Safety

Only licensed, insured professionals should perform sewer camera inspections. At McIntosh Plumbing, our team follows state and local codes, and we use equipment sanitized between jobs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets guidelines for working with confined spaces, and we always keep safety front and center.

A quality inspection gives you a digital recording for your records—useful for future repairs, warranty claims, or property sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a camera inspection damage my pipes?

No. The camera and cable are smooth, flexible, and designed not to scratch or break pipe walls. There’s no digging or cutting.

How long does the process take?

Most inspections take 30–90 minutes. Large or complex properties might need longer.

Can I watch during the inspection?

Absolutely. We encourage homeowners to watch the monitor. Seeing is believing.

What if you find a problem?

We’ll explain what we see, show you images, and discuss your options—whether it’s a quick repair, regular maintenance, or a bigger fix.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌧️

Here’s the thing—seasonal changes can stress your sewer line:

• Spring Thaw: Melting snow and rain raise groundwater, increasing the risk of infiltration.
• Tree Growth: Roots grow fastest in spring and summer, seeking out water from tiny leaks.
• Cold Snaps: Frozen ground can shift pipes or cause cracks.

In many areas, plumbing codes require pre-sale inspections for homes over a certain age. Always check your city’s requirements.

Sewer Camera Inspections: Worth Every Penny

Your home’s plumbing is a lot like your health: ignoring symptoms can lead to bigger problems. Sewer line inspections are your early warning system. They’re quick, non-invasive, and save you money and stress down the line.

Whether you’re facing an emergency plumbing situation, prepping to sell, or just want a checkup, McIntosh Plumbing’s licensed pros are ready to help. We also offer Water Filtration Systems near you, drain cleaning, and leak detection for all-around peace of mind.

Call McIntosh Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  888-835-0389 .